Breaking News: Córdoba Capital Faces Rising Respiratory Outbreak; Experts Issue Vaccination Alert
June 15, 2025 -_assert
In an urgent statement to the press, Dr. Alicia Cámara, a researcher at the Dr. José María Vanella Virology Institute at UNC, has
revealed that Córdoba Capital has witnessed a more than 40% rise in respiratory cases over just one week. This surge, attributed to
the delayed onset of colder weather, points to a potential outbreak as indicated by the epidemiological weeks (SE) 21-23, corresponding
to the first week of June 2025.
Epidemiological Data Points to Serious Concerns
These findings align with the latest National Epidemiological Bulletin, which highlights an increase in influenza A cases and other
viruses, resulting in a notable rise in consultations and hospitalizations related to respiratory conditions. Dr. Cámara emphasized
that influenza cases have surged by more than 48%, prompting urgent calls for improved vaccination rates and cautioning against
sending children to school amidst the outbreak.
Comparative Figures Reveal Initial System Resilience
While the figures are significantly lower than those of the previous year, they still do not impose an overwhelming burden on the health
system, which typically prepares rigorously for winter. According to Dr. Cámara, “The peak is expected in the coming weeks. We must
be vigilant and look out for one another.”
The Key Players in the Rise of Respiratory Diseases
Pablo Bonvehí, the head of Infectology at CEMIC and a member of the Vaccination Foundation, notes that colder temperatures and increased
time indoors contribute to higher case counts. “Our immune secretions increase in response to the cold, heightening the risk of virus
colonization,” he explained.
Dominance of Influenza and Other Viruses
Dr. Cámara pointed out that the influenza virus, particularly the H1N1 strain, remains predominant, followed by the respiratory syncytial
virus (RSV). This is a shift compared to the previous season, where RSV was more prevalent in children under 5 years old.
Significance in the Wider Community
In Córdoba, the Municipal Children’s Hospital has reported early detections of RSV in hospitalized children, but influenza detections
began sooner. Other viruses detected include adenovirus, parainfluenza, metapneumovirus, COVID-19, and “Coqueluche” or convulsive cough,
which is of particular concern due to the majority of detected cases being in children with incomplete vaccination.
The Ministry of Health has reported that respiratory infection cases have fluctuated this year, recording 33,100 cases by the epidemiological
week 21. Vaccination rates are low, with only 47% of children receiving one dose and 31% receiving both doses.
Expert Recommendations for Protection
To mitigate the risks, experts advise the public to adhere to respiratory hygiene practices—wash hands frequently, vent environments, and
use the elbow fold or handkerchief when sneezing or coughing. Breastfeeding should be promoted, and contact with those showing respiratory
symptoms should be avoided. Completing vaccination schemes is also crucial.
The Long-Term View on Public Health
Dr. Cámara concluded, “Vaccines and clean water have been monumental contributions to public health. Solidarity is key. Individual protection
measures alone may be insufficient. We must collectively follow all recommended precautions to protect ourselves and others.”
Source: Newsmorning.com and Dr. Alicia Cámara, Virology Institute, UNC
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